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MIA → SAN
Which side of the plane to sit from Miami International Airport (Miami) to San Diego International Airport (San Diego)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is the clear winner for this route, offering a breathtaking perspective of the San Diego skyline and the harbor during the final approach, which is one of the most scenic in the United States.
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The Everglades
Immediately after take-off from MIA, witness the vast, shimmering wetlands of the Florida Everglades stretching toward the Gulf.
Mississippi Delta
Aerial views of the intricate river patterns and sediment plumes where the Mississippi River meets the Gulf of Mexico.
West Texas Mountains
Rugged, arid landscapes and isolated mountain ranges of the Chihuahuan Desert near the Mexican border.
The Salton Sea
A striking view of California's largest, most saline lake shimmering in the middle of the Colorado Desert.
San Diego Skyline
The 'money shot' of the trip: a low-altitude pass right next to the skyscrapers of downtown San Diego and the Coronado Bridge.
For the best experience, choose a seat behind the wing to ensure your view of the San Diego skyline isn't obstructed during the steep descent. Morning flights are ideal to avoid the harsh afternoon sun glare when looking south toward the Mexican border. Keep your camera ready as soon as you cross the mountains into the San Diego basin.
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Get eSIMs for United StatesDowntown Miami
Depending on departure direction, you may see the dense high-rises of Brickell and the Port of Miami.
Sonoran Desert
Sweeping views of the Arizona desert floor, often featuring geometric irrigation patterns and volcanic craters.
Cuyamaca Mountains
The final mountain barrier before the descent into the coastal basin, offering green peaks contrasted against the desert.
Balboa Park & Zoo
During the final seconds of flight, look down to see the California Tower and the lush canopy of the San Diego Zoo.
The right side is excellent for afternoon flights as it stays in the shade, providing more comfortable viewing of the desert terrain. While you miss the main harbor view, you get a unique 'top-down' look at the architectural landmarks of Balboa Park just before touchdown. Watch for the colorful rooftops of the North Park and Hillcrest neighborhoods.
Book Hotels in San DiegoDistance: 3,643 km (2,264 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 17 min
Departure: MIA (25.79319953918457, -80.29060363769531)
Arrival: SAN (32.7336006165, -117.190002441)
Route Type: Domestic
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